Gitana del Mar is where you go when life has been going by so fast you can’t remember what day of the week it is. This charming property in Buritaca features rustic bungalow accommodations, delightful organic cuisine, and a spa full of unique treatments in the midst of it all. When I saw cuisine, that’s not an exaggeration. This place is all about delicately planned menus, soulful bites for all kinds of diets, and locally sourced ingredients.
Details You’ll Love
Gitana del Mar is an eco-friendly, culturally aware property that makes sure guests interact with their surroundings harmoniously. You’ll find no excessive waste or noise onsite. That sense of tranquility has made Gitana a top choice for Yogis at every level, to the point where there’s a dedicated shala (house or studio) and regular yoga classes on the premises.
Did I mention food? Okay, because it deserves a second, third, fourth, and as many mentions as it can get. This is a true highlight of Gitana del Mar. All guest plans include room & board, so you’ll never have to worry about getting fed. Getting fed well? That’s also handled.
Interior décor is on point at Gitana. There’s a perfect combination of Nordic simplicity, hygge, and organic materials everywhere you look. While globally inspired, the property does have a strong local influence from the indigenous tribes that inhabit the Sierra Nevada. You’ll find handwoven details in cushions and linens, as well as botanical illustrations around the site.
A chic, photogenic property in the middle of it all. Hotel Croydon is a recently renovated boutique hotel with fun art deco details, a premium location, and unique free perks. For a rate that starts at ~ $130 you get a complimentary shuttle service to the airport, access to a gym, and free drinks between 7-8pm at The Tavern — Croydon’s onsite bar.
About South Beach Group
This was my third time staying at a South Beach Group hotel in Miami, with the first two being at Riviera . This independent hotel group has more than 10 properties in the area, ranging from hostels to 4-star hotels. Two features that immediately stand out are their famous complimentary happy hours for guests (from 7-8pm) and their unique approach to interior design.
Details You’ll Love
Hotel Croydon is full of subtle mid-century design details that are not only photogenic but inspiring if you’re in Miami for a combination of work and play, as is usually my case. As a unique bonus, you can also borrow specialized design books at the lobby. There’s a balanced combination of monochrome details, interesting textures, and stunning palms everywhere you look.
The chic monochrome theme in tables, umbrellas, and interior décor
The charming outdoor pool surrounded by tropical plants
Croydon´s 24-hr bar featuring complimentary drinks for guests from 7-8pm
The breathtaking views of art deco Miami Beach from the rooftop
Tile. Enough said.
The stunning mid-century Sputnik chandelier waiting for you at the lobby
What makes these Sputnik chandeliers so special is that they are iconic interior design pieces from an era known as the Atomic Age. This period in design history spans from 1940 to 1960, and gets its name from society’s concerns about a nuclear war. Architecture, industrial design, advertising, interior design, and fine arts were all influenced by atomic science. Sputnik was the world’s first artificial satellite, and it was launched by the Soviet Union in 1957.
Figuring out what to wear during Summer months can be a struggle. Too much and you’ll melt inside the garment, and too little and you might feel overexposed. You also want to reveal your personal style and personality without going overboard, but did I mention the heat? Living in tropical areas for years has taught me a lesson or two about styling expressive outfits that are still fresh and wearable. Throughout this post, I’ll share four looks that are both vintage-inspired and incredibly comfortable.
Bohemian Luxe
White and pastels are an infallible color combination that keeps things simple but elegant. Wear your favorite white shorts with an open-back pastel top like this lilac lace halter from Tobi.
Bohemian Luxe
Handmade Wanderlust
Artisanal garments remind us of the fascinating little handmade shops we run into when we travel. I paired high-rise denim shorts with this stunning black crochet crop top. Since the crochet allows for air to flow, you’ll never find a fresher piece to stroll around the city!
Handmade Wanderlust
50s Pool Gal
I am of the opinion that women in the 1950s were the first to make swimming truly fashionable. To create that 50s girl vibe, I chose this serenity blue monokini with strong geometric accents and interesting diagonals. I paired it with oversized plastic round sunglasses by Polette to seal the retro look.
50s Pool Gal
Modern Colonial Romance
I’ll admit it: I am a hopeless romantic. I can’t tell when it started for sure, but I know every time I visit a colonial city like Cartagena (pictured) this damsel-in-distress persona immediately pops out. This impeccable bell sleeve top makes you feel well-dressed and laid back at the same time. I combined it with khaki scrunchy shorts and my Palm earrings from the Nostalgiosity Tulum Collection.
Modern Colonial Romance
This post was sponsored by Tobi. Thoughts and opinions are my own.
So, you can’t wait to land in Cartagena and sip a luscious mojito while peeking at the ocean from an ancient stone bastion. (Wait, you didn’t know that was possible? It is!). You’re daydreaming about peaceful strolls down narrow streets full of boutiques and unknown flavors. The island life. A dreamy boutique hotel. I get it. But there’s something we’ll need to fix first: your suitcase. What should you pack for your next trip to Cartagena? This article has got you covered.
What to Wear in Cartagena
What you’ll find below are my recommendations as far as what to wear on your next trip to Cartagena and how to style each piece to have the most comfortable, exciting, and (why not!) fashion-forward stay possible. Because of its tropical climate, Cartagena is similar to other Caribbean cities like Tulum, so you may also want to check out this outfit guide for the Riviera Maya.
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Shorts & Other Bottoms
Like I’ve suggested before, avoid thick denim because it just adds to the heat you’ll experience anywhere in the Caribbean. Go for thinner fabrics and looser fits. I find that light denim also helps create a fresher look when you visit sunny cities like Cartagena. Because they are closer to white, these types of pants and shorts also make the colored elements around them seem much more vibrant. For this particular trip, I wore light American Eagle shorts with subtle crochet appliques on the sides.
Color-wise, I was slightly more adventurous this time around. I discovered a contemporary folk brand called Santa Marguerite that collaborates with artisans in small villages throughout Central and South America to add a modern twist to traditional weaving techniques and folk patterns. This particular San Vicente top felt like it was made for the city, with the bright teal, orange, and magenta accents. I swear if you took all of Cartagena’s walls and created a color palette, it would look a lot like the folk pattern on that shirt.
Swimming Suits and Cover-Ups
I have always found that hand-woven crochet reflects what is still right about the fashion industry. Not because materials or garments themselves are particularly expensive, but because of the time and dedication invested in each piece. Because they are made by hand, crochet accents are reminiscent of fashion as a craft, which is an idea that I strongly identify with. For Cartagena, I went with a colorful 2-piece bikini by one of my favorite brands: Agua Bendita. You’ve read my thoughts on it before, and how I admire their revival of retro swimwear trends. Gobio, in particular, is a model inspired by a freshwater fish by the same name.
Blouses, Dresses, and Tunics
Let’s talk about blouses for a second. Off-shoulder lace blouses to be more specific. I have developed a strong preference for these pieces over time. They take breeze, water, and sand extremely well and that just qualifies them as the quintessential beachwear staple. In my opinion, the right off-shoulder lace blouse can make you feel colonial and island surroundings a bit more deeply. They just come with an air of romanticism that feels serene, simple, and carefree.
Accessories for Cartagena
But how can you create that whole beach-to-city look without carrying an entire new outfit in your bag? Accessories are the answer. Headpieces like bandanas and jewelry can get you there in 5 minutes. Let’s look at a few ways to do this.
Statement earrings that can get wet
I brought all four earrings in the Nostalgiosity Tulum Collection and enjoyed alternating them during the entire trip. Since they are made of gold-plated bronze, they’ll take a significant amount of humidity and sand without losing shine. You can always take them off while diving into the water and put them back on for some effortless beach glam.
Headbands
Nothing like a wired headband to control wild beach hair. One of my favorite brands (and yes, it will live on) is American Apparel, and they offer some of the most durable, high-quality hair accessories you will find. While not available at this time, their Twist Scarf is one of the best buys I’ve ever made — and yes, I got one in every color while I could. You saw me wearing the black one on the off-shoulder blouse photo above. The brand is expected to return this summer with an online flagship store.
Sunglasses
Bring one pair that works with blacks, one that works with browns, and something that doesn’t really go well with anything but is an outfit in and of itself. A classic pair of Ray Bans will do the trick, but this unique pair of yellow aviators by Mango is a showstopper on its own.
Ideal Shoes for Cartagena (and any other beach trip, really)
Wedges and espadrilles with natural fibers will go a long way in this sandy city. Bring a pair of plastic sandals that can take even more water for beach and pool events. I’ve used and recommend Melissa, a brand that has completely reinvented the idea of a plastic shoe.
As I’ve explained before, our best makeup choice during a beach trip is called H2O. Drink lots and lots and lots of water. Aside from that, and only if you want to wear some light makeup, here are my picks.
A compact eyeshadow palette that works for day and night looks. Tarte’s Tease Tartelette is a great one to bring.
Two lipsticks: one hydrating, everyday tone and one intense, dark shade
Your skincare products, including something to exfoliate with, a toner, soap, and a moisturizer. Bring face wipes and carry them with you.
Any other tips of your own?
Feel free to share any other tips or questions in the comments section below.
42 rooms, 2 restaurants, one rooftop pool lounge, and a complete romantic dream from start to finish. That is my best description of the Tcherassi Hotel + Spa.
Fashion Designer Silvia Tcherassi’s Hotel
Silvia Tcherassi is a Colombian fashion designer that has artfully combined tropical prints, loose fabrics, and resort luxury in collections that go from bridal wear to casual espadrilles. Without a doubt, Tcherassi is one of the most versatile Latin American designers in the global fashion stage. Back in 2009, Silvia had launched Tcherassi Mansion: an exclusive boutique hotel with seven rooms, four pools, and a lush spa. With this second property, she is effectively transitioning from fashion to lifestyle brand. 42 new rooms join what is now a majestic duo: one of the largest hotels in Cartagena’s Walled City, and the largest boutique hotel in town.
Details You’ll Love
Tcherassi Hotel & Spa feels very much like the headquarters of Silvia’s impeccable aesthetic, sense of comfort, and passion for details. That passion shows in everything from the linens to the carefully styled balconies that feel extracted from a Gabriel García Márquez novel. Wildlife and fabrics coexist in suites, pool areas, and dining spaces. Here are some of the details that I fell in love with:
Mansión Tcherassi’s jungalow-inspired pool on the first floor
The grand mirror gallery wall in the lobby
Romantic, pristine white balconies
Boho industrial decor details in Tuc Tuc, one of the hotel’s dining areas
Carefully-curated appetizers featuring fusions between Latin American and other cuisines
The breathtaking view from the rooftop lounge
Gorgeous vertical (floating) garden with over 3,000 tropical plants
Delicate amenities featuring natural scents and ingredients
Food in Tulum combines the best of Mexican flavors and international cuisine. I found amazing fusions between traditional spices and wood-fired pizzas, black beans and everyday breakfast items, spicy salsa and a Mediterranean octopus. I created this list to help you figure out which are the best restaurants in Tulum, where to eat at a fair price, and whether you should make any preparations beforehand. You will find that Latin American culture tends to forego the formalities involved in table reservations, but highly popular restaurants must still do so given their traffic.
On to the list:
Posada Margherita
Incredibly photogenic and full of personality, Posada Margherita is an oddity in the middle of so many tacos and tortillas. It is primarily an Italian restaurant, but there’s something about its flair that feels extremely local to Tulum. If you’re anything like me, you’ll love its casual vintage feel, the tiny candle workshops upon entering, the wild vegetation carefully grown along the sides.
Posada Margherita in Tulum
The entrance
La Eufemia
I’ll admit that I found La Eufemia 100% by accident. I’ll also admit that this is exactly how I’ve found some of the best restaurants I’ve been to in my life. La Eufemia is where you’ll have cheap flavorful tacos to the sound of upbeat beach music, surrounded by a lively crowd. There’s a hut where you can sit at a table or you can go the beach route and sit directly in front of the ocean. Either way, this casual spot deserves a visit — at least once. One quick fun fact before you go: La Eufemia is actually the name of the place’s beloved dog, and she’s just telling me everything about it in the photo below. We’re BFFs now.
Eufemia the dog
Juanita Diavola
You’ll find this incredible brick oven place right next to Posada Margherita, as a part of hotel Coco Tulum. Since I stayed at the hotel, I thought it couldn’t hurt to try what had already been ranked as one of the best pizzas in Tulum. It didn’t disappoint! Crunchy crust, fresh ingredients (including local seafood!), and live music on the weekends? You had me at crunchy, but everything else is also stellar.
Pizza and live music at Juanita Diavola
Mur Mur
Go straight to the bar. What a mysterious and totally charming ambiance! They’ve elevated that genuine patio feel with fancy drinks and carefully curated music. Mur Mur is where I found a bartender that finally explained to me what it was about Tulum that made it magical. Flavors are there, and you can’t leave without trying the octopus or a drink of premium Mezcal — grasshoppers (chapulines) included! Fun fact: Chapulín, the word Mexicans use for certain insects in the cricket family, is where the world-famous “Chapulín Colorado” got its superhero name. Chapulín Colorado is a fictional character created by Roberto Gómez Bolaños (Chespirito), undoubtedly the most famous Mexican comedian of all time.
Octopus at Mur Mur in Tulum
Ziggy’s
Breakfast is served. This is where you start the day with more than just a sunny side up. Even a “simple” meal of fried eggs is turned into a fascinating fusion by adding a mix of tomatoes, tortilla, and spices. Ziggy Beach, which is mainly a hotel, also offers lunch, dinner, and drinks open to non-guests. Check out their menu and get a taste for the type of surprises you’re in for.
Breakfast at Ziggy’s
Gitano
Ambiance is everything in this bespoke tropical gem. Succulents, candles, and palm trees surrounding you, there’s very little a place can do to disappoint you. Gitano offers an amazing selection of Mezcals, cocktails, and small bites. You can´t go wrong with the fire-roasted tomato flatbread and the Shrimp al Pil-Pil tacos. For a detailed explanation of Mexican taco types, check out this guide.
A night at Gitano in Tulum
Others
Coco Beach Bar: A hip resto-bar inside the Coco Tulum hotel. Great seafood and cocktails for a quick afternoon meal watching the sunset. Swings are a plus.
What is it about beachside food that makes it taste SO much better?
Hartwood: Call before you go. I cannot overstate this. There is virtually no chance of getting in unless you make a reservation with enough time. Considered by many as one of the best restaurants in Tulum, Hartwood features Mayan flavors cooked in a wood-burning oven and grill.
Ideal Shoes for Cartagena (and any other beach trip, really)
